A seasoned Hermosa Beach City Council veteran faces a political newcomer with a strong background in finance for the city treasurer’s position, which became vacant when David Cohn resigned in May after a scandal with a masseuse he hired.

Certified public accountant Karen Nowicki hopes her background in finance will woo voters away from her opponent, J.R. Reviczky, who has strong name recognition in town from his 16 years on the City Council.

“If you don’t know me, you know someone that does,” Reviczky said at a campaign forum. “I’m fiscally conservative and I will keep your money safe.”

Reviczky served on the council for four terms, from 1993 to 2009. He said he is seeking the treasurer’s office now because he believes he knows the city’s finances well and he cares about the city.

“I helped develop and approve budgets, reviewed audits and approved the city’s investment policy,” he said in a written statement. “As your treasurer, I will exercise caution with your funds and ensure complete transparency.

Nowicki said she would prioritize “the safety of our dollars” while also ensuring investment liquidity and profit.

“I will engage a seasonal approach to money management,” Nowicki said, referring to the strategy that suggests timing is important in portfolio investments. “I offer a fresh new beginning to the office of city treasurer, one based on integrity, professionalism, education and relevant financial experience.”

Whoever wins the election will receive $530 a month, which is the same rate offered to council members. The post also includes retirement and insurance benefits.

Viki Copeland, the city’s finance director, has filled in since Cohn resigned after an embarrassing court case in which he defended charges that he made sexual advances toward a masseuse he hired online to massage him at his home. Cohn actually initiated the case because he said the masseuse and her boyfriend stole an iPad from his home and then tried to extort $6,000 from him.

Cohn won the case in December but resigned from his public office five months later, explaining that he was too busy with other things to continue as treasurer.